Description: The MIL Mi-8, dubbed Hip by NATO, is a twin-engine, multi-role, medium transport helicopter capable of transporting troops and equipment or conducting ground attack missions. Besides, the aircraft is also suitable for civilian operators related to a variety of transportation roles. The Mi-8 was developed in the late 1950s and 1960s by the Soviet Union, first flew on July 7, 1961, entering service in 1967. The five-bladed main rotor is driven by either two TV2-117 or TV3-117 turboshaft engines rated from 1,700-shp to 2,200-shp allowing a top speed of 230-250 kilometers per hour. In addition to its crew of two/three men, the standard Mi-8 can transport as many as 24/28 troops. The Mi-17 was the export designation for the Soviet Mi-8. The Mi-171 refers to the modern production standard introduced in 1991. The aircraft design and technologies evolved over 60 years with the current production standards (various models) being far more sophisticated and performant than early models. More than 12,000 Mi-8/17/171 helicopters of all models were produced or are in production for the Soviet Union, Russia and international customers. As of November 2013, roughly 2,400 Mi-8/Mi-17 helicopters remain in service worldwide. In January 2015 that figure had increased to 2,469 aircraft with several models remaining in production beyond 2020.

The Mi-171Sh-VN is a new variant of the Mi-171Sh helicopter optimized for use by special operations forces during anti-terrorist operations. The helicopters benefits from the experience gained by the Russian Armed Forces in Syria in 2015, 2016 and 2017. It is equipped with a new composite rotor blades, X-shaped tail rotor and President-S anti-aircraft missile countermeasures as well as Kevlar armor in the floors of the crew cabin and cargo compartment. These improvements allow a top speed of 174 mph (280 kph) and a cruise speed of 161 mph (259 kph) with a maximum takeoff weight of 13.5 tons. The aircraft altitude and climatic characteristics have been expanded as well. Its standard armament includes two 12.7mm machines guns and guided missiles. The Mi-171Sh-Vn helicopter was unveiled by Russian Helicopters during the Moscow Airshow in July 2017.